From Midwest to the Sea: A Quiet Start to a Texas Cruise

This trip started the easiest way possible — a direct flight from the Midwest to Texas, no delays, no drama, no sprinting through airports. Just a calm reminder that sometimes travel can be smooth, even when you’re used to bracing for chaos.

I landed feeling relaxed instead of rushed, which set the tone for everything that followed.

A Few Hours, Just for Me

Before my cousins arrived, I had a few hours completely to myself in Galveston. No agenda. No timeline. Just me and a coastal town I didn’t need to rush through.

I wandered the seawall, letting the breeze and the sound of the waves do their thing. There’s something grounding about being near the water — like your nervous system remembers how to exhale before your brain does.

And yes, there was a Target run. Because there is always a Target run. Sunscreen, last‑minute essentials, and a couple things I absolutely did not need but absolutely wanted. Travel tradition.

Unexpected Moments

One of my favorite parts of traveling solo is how open you are to little, unplanned moments. In Galveston, that looked like feeding raccoons — something that wasn’t on any itinerary but somehow became one of those stories you know you’ll remember.

Solo travel has a way of turning small moments into highlights. When you’re not coordinating with anyone else, you actually notice where you are.

Boarding the Ship

Eventually, it was time to head to the port. Watching the ship come into view never gets old — that mix of excitement and relief that you’ve made it, that the vacation is officially beginning.

This cruise is a little different for me because I have a solo room. No sharing space. No adjusting schedules. Just a room that’s entirely mine.

There’s something deeply comforting about that kind of independence — knowing you can be around people when you want to be, and retreat into quiet when you don’t.

A Soft Beginning

This wasn’t a loud or dramatic start to the trip. It was gentle. Easy. Spacious.

From a smooth flight, to solo hours in Galveston, to stepping onto the ship with everything handled and nowhere to rush — it felt like a reminder that doing things on your own doesn’t have to be lonely. Sometimes, it’s just peaceful.

And honestly? That feels like the perfect way to begin what’s next.

Question for you: Do you enjoy arriving early and exploring on your own, or do you prefer jumping straight into group plans?

Until the next chapter—may your coffee be strong and your heart stay open, and you always lead with kindness
— Jen